1849 P3CS Three Cent Silver, Judd-111 Original, Pollock-125,
R.6, PR63 NGC. These early patterns for the three cent
denomination combine the obverse of a regular Seated Liberty half
dime with a plain reverse indicating the numeral 3 in the center,
with no further elaboration or ornamentation. This same design was
struck in billon composition (Judd-111, 50% silver/50% copper) and
coin silver (Judd-111a), but NGC has certified this piece as
Judd-111. Struck with a reeded edge. We believe this obverse die is
different from the various overdate half dime obverses called
"1849/6" and 1849/8." The 9 is broadly repunched north, but the
planchet has some interesting incipient planchet laminations on the
obverse that cross through the date digits and interfere with the
die details, making variety determination difficult. The obverse is
reflective with some iridescent accents beneath a streaky layer of
charcoal-gray. The reverse shows less color variation and no
planchet defects. A piece that should be inspected in person, but a
highly interesting early pattern variety, estimated at R.6 by
USPatterns.com.From The Thompson Collection of US Patterns. (PCGS# 11485)